If you crave total relaxation look no further than Maalifushi, the first boutique retreat to open on the previously undeveloped archipelago of the Thaa Atoll in the Maldives. Designed by Japanese architect Koichiro Ikebuchi this gorgeous resort certainly lives up to the COMO mantra of wellness. With 33 minimalist residences on water and 32 on land, this is the perfect vacation spot for couples and families who want to switch off and chill out. Parents can unwind on the beach whilst children are kept busy at the outstanding Kids Club, and we love the outdoor cinema where families can reconvene under the stars in the evenings.

Location

Maalifushi is nestled on the south west side of the Thaa Atoll; one of the most southerly Atolls in the country. Due to the secluded nature of the resort international flights can only take you as far as Male. From Male it’s a short domestic flight to nearby Thimarafushi airport followed by a speedboat ride which will have you lounging by the infinity pool in no time. Thaa Atoll is largely unpopulated so the white sandy beaches and lagoons that surround the hotel are yours to explore. Make use of the hotels in-house surf instructors who can take surfers of all levels out to the nearby deserted reefs to surf the best waves in The Maldives. For underwater explorations the world class dive school will take guests to nearby reefs renowned for an incredible array of marine life including whale sharks.

Your room

Taking inspiration from the local influences and natural assets of the island all the rooms feature huge windows, teak floors and high ceilings so you can soak in the ocean views. Remarkably all the suites and rooms have been built around the natural vegetation alluding to the pristine desert island vibe. Take your pick from the beach suites, water villas and garden rooms. Hole up in the suites and water villas, which have there own plunge pools and private lounge areas, as well as huge sunken bath tubs where you can enjoy the complimentary COMO Shambhala bath products. If you’re looking for extra privacy for you and your family then hole up in a two-bedroom COMO Villa which comes with a large pool and your own private butler.

Why we like it?

Apart from the stunning location, we love the warm and friendly staff where nothing is too much trouble to make your stay perfect. As the hotels philosophy focuses on wellness make sure not to miss out on the open air yoga sessions or the incredible over-water Shambhala Spa. Tuck in to the deliciously unique COMO Shambhala cuisine. It aims to give maximum health benefits with all the flavor, think breakfasts of raw coconut oatmeal with COMO signature ginger tea that are definitely worth waking up for. If you’re a foodie you’ll love the Tai restaurant, which epitomizes Japanese cuisine with an innovative twist. We recommend watching the sunset on the terrace with a cocktail or two before sampling delicacies like tuna tartar and red snapper tacos. End your trip on a high note with the exclusive ‘castaway picnic’ on a private beach.